Hangin' Out In 100b

Two-thirds of 100b have been massive fans of The Black Keys for since we first heard their glorious sound blasting from our speakers. One-third of us had only listened to them casually previous to this assignment. In honor of their wonderful new album, Attack & Release, our mission was to choose their very best song and justify our choice in 100 words or less. It turned out to be pretty difficult for all of us. If you choose to accept this mission, play along with us in the comments.

aDawgg:

The best Black Keys album is Rubber Factory, which gobbled up six of the 10 tracks on the Long List. Sadly, when forced to pick the best single song, nothing from Rubber Factory made it to the Big Three: “Breaks” (The Big Come Up). “Have Love Will Travel” (thickfreakness). “Modern Times” (Magic Potion). Listening to each one last time right now I still haven’t decided. I guess I prefer musics that tug at my gut. Give me rhythm and memorable guitar play. That’s what it takes to get me hooked. The best of the Black Keys? Just listen to it.

   The Black Keys – Modern Times

Bean:

When I think about the The Black Keys, the first thing I think of is their incredible live shows. I think of feeling like the music is physically blowing you away. I think of Patrick Carney drumming so hard his glasses fly off and the floor tremors like an earthquake. I think about feeling Dan Auerbach’s guitar in my knees and hearing his voice in the pit of my stomach. These are not the only qualities that make The Black Keys great, but they’ve made the deepest impression on me. “Grown So Ugly” epitomizes that feeling. Listen to it LOUD.

   The Black Keys – Grown So Ugly

Tamboosh:

I remember what it felt like to stand in a row to be picked for teams during gym classes. You stand there so vulnerable, exposed, and spotty and pray that you’re not the last one called. It’s dehumanizing and gym teachers who force kids to go through it are cruel. I didn’t want any of The Black Keys’ – whom I love with an almost disturbing passion – songs to go through that so in a low whisper I say, I choose “Set You Free” from Thickfreakness. Sexy, loud, raw, stirring, and passionate, it’s everything I heart about them Keys.

   The Black Keys – Set You Free